Overview

Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPN) are a group of chronic blood cancers in which the bone marrow produces too many blood cells—red cells, white cells, or platelets. Over time, this overproduction may cause blood clotting issues, bleeding disorders, enlarged spleen, fatigue, and increased risk of complications.

MPNs are long-term conditions but highly manageable with proper monitoring and modern therapy.

At I D Cancer Center, we offer advanced diagnostic testing, molecular profiling, targeted therapy, JAK inhibitors, chemotherapy, and supportive care, ensuring comprehensive and compassionate management of all MPN types.

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Types of Myeloproliferative Neoplasms

1. Polycythemia Vera (PV)

Bone marrow makes too many red blood cells, leading to thickened blood and increased clot risk.

2. Essential Thrombocythemia (ET)

Excess platelet production, increasing risk of blood clots or bleeding.

3. Primary Myelofibrosis (PMF)

Bone marrow becomes scarred (fibrosis), leading to low blood counts, enlarged spleen, and symptoms such as fatigue and weight loss.

4. Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML)

Caused by the Philadelphia chromosome (BCR-ABL), often treatable with targeted therapy.

5. Chronic Neutrophilic / Eosinophilic Leukemia

Very rare forms involving overproduction of white blood cells.

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Causes & Risk Factors

Major causes include:

• Genetic mutations such as JAK2, CALR, MPL

• Philadelphia chromosome (CML)

• Older age

• Previous exposure to radiation or chemicals

• Family history (rare)

MPNs are not contagious.

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Common Symptoms

Symptoms vary by type but may include:

General Symptoms

• Persistent fatigue

• Weakness

• Night sweats

• Weight loss

• Fever

Blood-Related Symptoms

• Headache

• Blurred vision

• Itching (especially after a hot shower)

• Numbness or tingling in hands/feet

• Easy bruising or bleeding

Organ-Related Symptoms

• Enlarged spleen (left upper abdomen heaviness)

• Abdominal discomfort

• Early satiety

Any persistent blood count abnormality should be evaluated early.

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Diagnosis at I D Cancer Center

We follow international (WHO/NCCN) guidelines for accurate identification and classification of MPNs.

🩸 Blood Tests

• CBC (Complete blood count)

• ESR

• Peripheral smear

• LDH levels

🩺 Bone Marrow Tests

• Bone marrow aspiration & biopsy

• Fibrosis grading

• Cytogenetics

🧬 Molecular Testing

• JAK2 V617F mutation

• CALR and MPL mutations

• BCR-ABL (for CML)

• Next-generation sequencing (NGS) if required

🖥️ Imaging

• Ultrasound / CT scan for spleen and liver size

Accurate molecular diagnosis guides personalized treatment.

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Treatment Options

Treatment is personalized depending on MPN type, age, symptoms, and presence of mutations.

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1. Targeted Therapy

Highly effective for CML & JAK2-positive MPNs:

• Imatinib

• Dasatinib

• Nilotinib

• Ruxolitinib (JAK inhibitor)

• Fedratinib

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2. Medications for Symptom Control

• Hydroxyurea

• Interferon therapy (Peg-IFN)

• Aspirin (low dose) to reduce clot risk

• Anagrelide to reduce platelets

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3. Phlebotomy (for Polycythemia Vera)

Removing excess blood to reduce red cell count.

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4. Radiation Therapy

At I D Cancer Center, radiotherapy is used for:

• Enlarged spleen causing symptoms

• Bone pain caused by marrow fibrosis

• Localized disease control

Techniques used include IMRT, IGRT, and VMAT for high precision.

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5. Chemotherapy

Used when blood counts are difficult to control or disease becomes aggressive.

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6. Stem Cell Transplant (select cases)

Potentially curative for myelofibrosis and some advanced MPNs, depending on age and medical fitness.

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Living with MPN

MPNs require long-term monitoring and support.

At I D Cancer Center, we offer:

• Regular CBC monitoring

• Spleen size evaluation

• Lifestyle and diet guidance

• Fatigue and symptom management

• Cardiovascular risk reduction

• Psychological and emotional support

With proper care, patients can live long, meaningful lives.